Iran Update Special Report, August 7, 2026

Key Points:

• The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a coalition of Iranian-backed militias, postponed planned retaliatory attacks against Saudi Arabia following US-Saudi strikes due to mediation by Iraqi militia leader Hadi al Ameri and an agreement with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al Zaydi.
• Iraqi security forces increased deployments and heightened security measures near Baghdad to prevent imminent militia attacks on Saudi Arabia, but these measures were later eased after the Zaydi-Ameri agreement to allow for diplomatic efforts.
• Iraqi militias, including Kataib Hezbollah and Harakat Hezbollah al Nujaba, have coordinated with Iran’s IRGC and the Houthis in planning multiple attacks targeting Saudi Arabia’s civilian and energy infrastructure, with some plans extending to Kuwait, Jordan, and Syria.
• Iran’s IRGC is reportedly using militia attacks and threats as leverage in ongoing negotiations with the US and allies over the Iran-Oman Strait of Hormuz agreement, seeking economic concessions and recognition of its role in managing strait traffic.
• The Houthis have intensified coordinated attacks with Iraqi militias and the IRGC against Saudi Arabia, continuing their naval blockade and strikes on Saudi and Yemeni government targets until their demands, including lifting the Saudi blockade and payment of salaries, are met.